About DOEE

Who We Are

The Department of Energy and Environment (DOEE) is the leading authority on energy and environmental issues affecting the District of Columbia. Using a combination of regulations, outreach, education, and incentives, our agency administers programs and services to fulfill our mission. We work collaboratively with other government agencies, residents, businesses, and institutions to promote environmentally responsible behavior that will lead to a more sustainable urban environment.

DOEE has about 300 engineers, biologists, toxicologists, geologists, technicians, inspectors, environmental specialists, policy analysts, administrators, public outreach specialists, and support staff. Among their many responsibilities are issuing permits, monitoring environmental conditions, providing funding and technical assistance, assessing environmental risks, developing policies, inspecting facilities, enforcing environmental regulations, working with other entities to solve everyday environmental issues, and informing and educating the public on local environmental trends and their benefits.

The DOEE team promotes public and environmental health by implementing and enforcing District and Federal laws and regulations. We recognize that strong and healthy communities are central to the District’s economic prosperity, and work daily to protect the environment in which its people live, work and play.

Mission

DOEE's mission is to improve the quality of life for the residents and natural inhabitants of the nation’s capital by protecting and restoring the environment, conserving our natural resources, mitigating pollution, increasing access to clean and renewable energy, and educating the public on ways to secure a sustainable future. The agency’s core responsibilities include, but are not limited to, enforcing environmental regulations; monitoring and assessing environmental risks; developing energy and environmental policies; issuing permits; and providing residents and local businesses with funding, technical assistance, and information on initiatives designed to ensure a more resilient and sustainable city. We perform all agency mission activities with the highest integrity to uphold the public trust.

Vision

DOEE envisions a nation's capital that sets the standard for environmentally responsible and sustainable practices. We envision a city whose rivers and waters are fishable and swimmable; whose buildings and infrastructure help protect our health and environment; and whose residents, businesses, and visitors embrace and employ smart environmental practices in their daily lives and work together to deliver a clean, healthy, and vibrant city to future generations

Values

Energy and Environmental Equity: We believe that all District residents should be afforded the same ability to live and enjoy the natural world immediately around them, and to have access to clean and affordable energy, regardless of race, gender, national origin, or income. We believe environmental protection and restoration of our natural resources and environment not only serve to conserve and sustain the District’s native species, habitats, and waterways but also to protect public health and safety. We are committed to addressing disproportionate (unequal) impacts faced by some communities and to ensuring residents have an active voice in creating and participating in the programs we launch, and in decisions about our activities that may affect their environment, health, and well-being.

Leadership: We believe in setting an example for environmental and energy conservation and urban sustainability that others can follow and be empowered to achieve.

Commitment to Service: We are committed to the communities, the people, and the environment of the District and to serve as responsible stewards of the air, water, land, and natural resources we all share. We strive to provide exemplary customer service.

Accountability and Integrity: We vow to act with the highest integrity in all of our efforts, as we work to improve and protect the quality of life for all of the residents and natural inhabitants of the District.